In order to meet with the approval of local landowner the Duke of Northumberland who had a shooting lodge nearby, the viaduct was built in a Baronial style and decorated with a battlemented parapet and faux arrow slits.

[4] The arches are constructed at a skewed angle and the stones are laid along helical courses, according to a set of principles attributed to architect and mathematician Peter Nicholson.

[5] Passenger traffic was always limited, though the line did open up the North Tyne valley and was in part responsible for the increase in population there.

[5] However, steps were taken by the Northumberland and Newcastle Society[5][9] to protect the viaduct itself by encasing the bases of its piers in concrete and waterproofing the bridge deck.

[4][5] The structure is now a Scheduled Monument[1][2] and forms part of a footpath from which walkers can enjoy the views from the top of its arches.